A certain type of hack 'n' slash game is becoming increasingly common on the App Store. In fact, it's gotten to the point were it seems like some are basically copy and paste versions of other games with different graphics. The game I'm referring to is the arena style slasher where players move about with a control stick while either mashing a button to attack or holding a different control stick to shoot in a direction. TinyLegends - Crazy Knight provides players with that new-classic, arena style slasher. This one has a bit more depth than some of the other ones I've played, but the gameplay basic and a bit boring.

Fighting is standard when it comes to these games. The left stick moves the character and the right button attacks. Once players can afford better weapons, another button is added for skills that weapon provides. Each level is either survival or a "kill all of the monsters" mode (occasionally both in a sort of whichever-comes-first mode). Players can experience and gold from killing monsters. That gold can go towards buying better weapons. Of course, this wouldn't be a modern iOS game without the ability to buy more in-game currency through in-app purchases.

Where this game gets more depth is in level select screen. Most of these games have a couple arenas that the player repeatedly fights in (sometimes with different difficulty levels). This game unlocks more levels on the map as the character levels up. And, while repetitive, each level is different (sort-of). The levels use a different combination of monsters, bosses, and game modes.

It's possible to make a hack 'n' slash game where players feel like they're actually using some skill in destroying their enemies (even though generally it's just button-mashing). The Devil May Cry series was one of the hack 'n' slash experiences that made me feel good at the game. TinyLegends - Crazy Knight is one of those slashing experiences that make sure players realize they're just violently mashing on their screens. I barely felt satisfaction when I reached 200 and 300 hit combos because I would just go through each level and run in a circle while mashing attack (occasionally using a skill).

Honestly, I have a hard time imagining one of these games done right without adding a little more skill to the gameplay. If I can run around in circles and mash a button, something has been done incorrectly. Make me use some strategy. Make me think about who to attack first. Give me more options than an attack and a skill button. Despite the mindless nature of the gameplay TinyLegends - Crazy Knight is a decent time waster. At least it's only $0.99.

iPhone Screenshots

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iPad Screenshots

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